COX'S BAZAR, Bangladesh – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning about an impending humanitarian crisis in Cox's Bazar, where over one million Rohingya refugees reside, following significant funding reductions from major donor nations, including the United States and European countries.
During a visit to the camps during Ramadan, Guterres described Cox's Bazar as "ground zero" for the impact of these cuts, emphasizing the risk of imminent food ration reductions. "We are at risk of cutting the food rations in this camp," he stated, warning of "an unmitigated disaster" that could lead to suffering and even death.
Guterres praised Bangladesh for its "enormous" generosity in hosting the refugees, who fled violence in Myanmar, particularly the 2017 attacks described by the UN as a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing." He stressed that the international community cannot abandon the Rohingya and pledged to "speak loudly" to world leaders about the urgent need for increased support.
"We cannot accept that the international community forgets about the Rohingyas," Guterres said, insisting that the solution to the crisis lies within Myanmar, with conditions allowing for the refugees' safe and voluntary return.
He also highlighted the camps' vulnerability to climate change, noting the increased risks of fires during scorching summers and floods and landslides during monsoon seasons. Guterres called for broader support, including education, skills training, and opportunities for the refugees, to prevent them from resorting to dangerous sea journeys.
Guterres concluded his visit by sharing an Iftar meal with refugees, underscoring his solidarity and commitment to ensuring continued international support during Ramadan, a month of solidarity.
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